Reading Claudia Medina-Culós’ thoughts on Family Day in this issue provided a moment of clarity, and also some time for reflection. It has been stated many times, but it can never really be stated enough: we choose our family.
For some, Powell River itself is the all-encompassing family; a community that supports and nurtures us. We celebrate our triumphs collectively and band together during our struggles. We support our family members as they strive to better themselves and achieve their goals, and we console them and grieve with them during times of tragedy and pain.
People choose to live in Powell River for a variety of reasons. Some are born and raised here, and those who leave even sometimes find themselves returning. Others have come from near and far to settle in a small, coastal BC city that, for whatever reason, is now a place to call home.
One reason for living here stands out above all others, and it can be seen on the faces at every community event and gathering. Powell River is where we find family.
It goes
beyond that fuzzy feeling of stopping to chat with a neighbour on an evening walk, but that’s where it starts. The kernel of that simple connection sprouts into much larger possibilities.
As we celebrate Family Day on Monday, February 8, remember that the relatively new winter holiday isn’t just about taking the kids to Powell River Recreation Complex to go skating or swimming, and it isn’t all about hunkering down at home in front of the fire, either.
Family Day means celebrating all of the ones we love, and recognizing we all have a place in this community; this larger family we have all chosen.
Just like any family, everyone here has an important role to play. Elders and leaders guide the community as a younger generation challenges convention. With each generation, more responsibilities are accepted and the family bond strengthens.
This chosen family of Powell River is about mutual respect and cooperation. There may be conflict or disputes from time to time, but we will always love our family.
If the common goal is to live in a loving and nurturing community, then Family Day is meant to facilitate a larger gathering of all of those who are important in our lives. Our chosen family.
-Jason Schreurs, publisher/editor
